
First published in 1901, this epistolary book presents fictional letters from a successful Chicago pork packer to his college-aged son. Blending wit, business acumen, and life wisdom, the father offers advice on work ethic, integrity, personal character, and money management. Written in a candid and humorous tone, the book delivers old-fashioned common sense that remains surprisingly relevant. It's a manual not just for business, but for becoming a responsible and grounded adult. The blend of fatherly guidance and entrepreneurial insight has made it a classic on both parenting and leadership.
George Horace Lorimer was an American journalist and editor best known for his long tenure as editor-in-chief of The Saturday Evening Post from 1899 to 1936. Under his leadership, the magazine became a staple of American culture. He wrote Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son, a series of fictional father-to-son letters filled with practical business advice and moral lessons. The book became a bestseller, celebrated for its wit, insight, and timeless guidance. Lorimer’s ability to blend humor, wisdom, and common sense contributed to his enduring influence as both an editor and a cultural commentator.

First published in 1949, The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham is a foundational text on value investing and long-term financial strategy. Graham, known as the father of value investing, teaches readers how to analyze stocks with a focus on intrinsic value, margin of safety, and disciplined decision-making. The book distinguishes between “investing” and “speculating,” urging caution, patience, and rational thinking. With commentary by Jason Zweig in modern editions, the book remains a timeless guide for both novice and experienced investors. Its core message—that emotional control and sound principles are key to investment success—has influenced generations, including Warren Buffett.

by Tyler Cowen
In Average Is Over, economist Tyler Cowen explores the future of work and society in an age of technological disruption and widening inequality. He argues that automation and artificial intelligence will create a divide between those who can work with technology and those who cannot. The book predicts a future of high performance rewarded greatly, while the "average" worker may struggle. Cowen’s provocative analysis addresses education, economics, and social mobility, offering both warnings and strategies for adapting to a changing landscape. It’s an essential read for understanding the forces reshaping labor, wealth, and opportunity in the 21st century.

by Greg McKeown
Essentialism is a manifesto for simplicity in an increasingly busy world. Greg McKeown advocates for doing less, but better—focusing only on what is truly important. He challenges the idea that we must do everything and instead teaches readers how to identify their highest priorities, eliminate non-essential tasks, and reclaim control of their time and energy. With practical tips and clear frameworks, the book empowers readers to make deliberate choices, say no more often, and live with intention. Essentialism is about creating space for what really matters—professionally and personally—by embracing the power of focus and clarity.

by Ed Catmull
Ed Catmull, co-founder of Pixar, offers an insider’s guide to building a creative culture. Through stories from the making of beloved films like Toy Story and Finding Nemo, Catmull reveals how Pixar nurtures innovation while maintaining excellence. He discusses leadership, collaboration, and the importance of candor in creative work. Central to the book is the idea that protecting creativity requires careful management of failure and feedback. Creativity, Inc. is not just a memoir—it’s a manual for leading with purpose, whether you’re in animation, tech, or any field requiring bold ideas and inventive teams.